FACA April Program: “Finntown – A Window Into a Unique Minneapolis Community”

April 20 @ 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

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For FACA’s April program Joan Dwyer, John Hanson, Mark Lahtinen, members of the Finnish Genealogy Group (FGG), will share a presentation based on a guided tour they gave in 2016 of Finntown. Finntown in North Minneapolis served as an important waypoint and migrant center for Finnish immigrants in the late 1800s, that developed into a vibrant Finnish-American community in the 20th century. The trio will offer stories and perspectives on the life and culture of this unique place.

Finntown actively engaged in Minneapolis life through its churches, political activities, and clubs. It proved foundational in the broader American labor movement. Finnish migrants, who settled to the west in the Cokato and Annandale areas, frequently returned to Minneapolis for work, family, and commerce. Active rail lines and street cars allowed for inexpensive travel. Finntown attracted businesses like Glenwood Inglewood Water, Leef Bros. Laundry Services, and Munsingwear, all of which benefited from the Finnish work ethic.

The trio has strong connections to FinnTown, with family living, working, going to school there. They are passionate and involved champions of the Finnish-American community in Minnesota.

Please join us for a most interesting evening. Coffee and conversation will follow.